2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen Xsara (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 118 kg more than 2003 Citroen Xsara.
Because 1982 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen Xsara. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen Xsara. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2003 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2003 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen Xsara | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | Xsara | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
